Over 600 Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd (PMPML) employees get tested; 16% were either known or were newly diagnosed to have diabetes. 6% new diabetics were diagnosed. Thus, one third of the patients who had high sugars were unaware

In a free health check-up arranged by Hirabai Cowasji Jehangir Medical Research Institute organized (HCJMRI), around 6 per cent new cases of diabetes were diagnosed. Also, one third of the patients who had high sugars were unaware.

On the occasion of World Diabetes Day, HCJMRI had arranged a free health check for PMPML employees at Swargate & Katraj Bus Depot on 14th November 2018. The camp was conducted from 10 am till 4 pm with a team of experienced doctors. Creating awareness about diabetes and guiding people to live a healthy lifestyle are the main concerns.

The tests done included height, weight, blood sugar, blood pressure and also a physical examination. Dr Anuradha Khadilkar, Deputy Director at HCJMRI says, “Every year on the occasion of world diabetes day we organize an awareness campaign, health camps and one or other activity for the awareness of Type 1 Diabetes. This year, we planned a Health Camp for the PMPML employees.”

The team of doctors today saw and examined over 600 employees – around 310 employees at Katraj and 290 at Swargate.

Out of the employees seen, 6% new diabetics were suspected (ie had high blood sugar).

A round 16%of these employees were found to suffer from diabetes and around 12% from hypertension.

40% of them were overweight and suffered from a lot of stress courtesy the people contact and also may have addictions like eating paan and tobacco.

Dr Anuradha Khadilkar further said, “While we have ensured to give them suggestions to help deal with their stress, we would also urge those in contact with the drivers, bus conductors and the ancillary ground staff to be patient and kind with them. It would help them stay more healthy and happy”

She added, “Many of the staff were worried. “They would rather live with a disease than know about it. But their seniors egged them on and ensured each one of them got tested.”